next story

Cute Outfit Idea Of The Day: Jeans And Boots, Only Better

For practically every STF I've ever known, the jeans-and-boots combo is a fall and winter staple. But how can you kick your signature style up a notch this season? We turn to my super-cute friend Vanessa for some tips, after the jump.

You may remember Vanessa from this past summer, when she turned up the heat in the Hamptons in a pair of jean shorts with stilettos. Well, I'm happy to report that she doesn't just save her fabulous style for vacation weekends--she was working it when we met on Saturday morning to do a little Kmart shopping spree downtown. I was so into how cute she made simple jeans and boots look that I had to snap a pic and share some tips with you guys:

2. Pay attention to detail. It's a small thing, but that little bit of yellow sleeve peeking out from underneath Vanessa's cape sleeves? It totally makes the outfit. Styling tricks like that--bringing people's eye to an unexpected place--are the difference between a jeans and boots look that's a same-old snooze fest, and one that turns heads.

3. Always wear one major accessory. Vanessa is the queen of amazing finishing touches (the first thing I said when I saw her new apartment: "But where are you keeping all of your costume jewelry!?"), and the hippie headband has kind of become her signature. Yours can be anything you want--a big flower pin, a brightly colored belt, or an insane pair of earrings. Just choose one item that someone passing you on the street would definitely notice.

Shop our version of Vanessa's look now....

...and then tell me, dolls: Do you live in jeans and boots all fall and winter? What are some of your secrets for making them more exciting? Do you already use any of these tips? Will you try them out? Discuss!